Characteristics of aluminium foils

Characteristics of aluminium foils

Aluminium foils can be used for a wide range of heating applications, such as cooking or reheating foil-wrapped food in convection ovens, microwave ovens, air ovens or double boilers. Aluminium foils reduce cooking preparation times and save energy at the same time.

Aluminium foils are clean and hygienic. After a high temperature annealing process, the foil is completely sterilised. As a result, aluminium foil is safe for contact with food and does not harbour bacteria.

Aluminium foil is safe when used in packaging and in contact with foodstuffs. In most cases, aluminium does not react with foodstuffs. In many applications, aluminium foil is laminated with other materials and does not come into direct contact with the packaged product. In addition, it is ideal for safeguarding products against counterfeiting and contributes to the product's anti-counterfeiting function.

It also has excellent decorative potential. Aluminium foils have a bright metallic lustre and are compatible with all printing techniques, thus allowing designers to use their imagination to create stunning designs, shelf displays and brand logos.

The reflective properties of aluminium foils also give them the ability to be used in many different ways and places. Aluminium foil reflects 98% of light and infrared heat. In addition, it has a glossy surface and a low thermal emissivity. Thanks to these properties, it can be used as an energy-saving insulating material, as well as being useful in fire protection. In motor vehicles and ships, as well as in fire doors and building grilles, aluminium foil forms a firewall that promotes heat dissipation while preventing the intervention of oxygen that contributes to combustion.

It also has electrical conductivity properties. Aluminium foil is able to shield magnetic fields and radio signals. In fibre-optic cables, aluminium foil acts as a "tracer" to check the reliability of cable connections. Its electrical conductivity makes it possible to verify the integrity of the cable loop.